Buying a Home · Straight answer from Kathleen
How do I know if I'm paying too much for a house?
You know by comparison: how the home's price sits against recent sold homes in the same town, adjusted for size, condition, and location. When I prepare your offer, I build that comparison so the number is defended, not hoped.
Also answered on this page
- How can I be confident an asking price is fair?
The evidence is the comps: closed sales that are truly similar, adjusted honestly. If a home is priced above its comps, there should be a reason, view, updates, scarcity, and if there is no reason, that is your negotiating information.
You are never paying just for the house; you are paying for the value of being in that town, that street, that condition, this season. I will translate what comparable homes actually commanded so 'fair' becomes a number, not a feeling.
If you ever wonder whether you overpaid, the way to know is the same evidence, and I would rather you see it before you offer than after.
On the North Shore
North Shore value is hyperlocal: a water view, the rail line, or a village walkability premium can justify a price that looks high against a town average. The comps show it, the averages lie.
Keep reading
Related questions
Still wondering
Ask your own version of this question.
Every situation is different, which is why Kathleen asks questions before she answers them. Send your details and she will reply personally with advice specific to your move.
Buying a Home
Ready to make a smart move?
The answer that fits your situation usually needs one more question from Kathleen. That is what the conversation is for.